Shooting Investigation Update

The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office in consultation with the 12th Judicial Circuit State Attorney's Office and Sarasota County Medical Examiner's Office, has concluded the investigation into the shooting death of James S. Sasser.

On September 13, deputies were called to 1867 Rita Street in response to a burglary and subsequent shooting. Investigation revealed that when Sasser forced his way through the front door of Robert Setti's home, Setti armed himself with a shotgun and fired four rounds. Based on evidence recovered from the scene, detectives confirmed Setti shot Sasser in self-defense.

During the investigation of the burglary and subsequent death, detectives obtained a search warrant for Setti's home. During the execution of the warrant, detectives and crime scene analysts discovered more than 120 grams of Ketamine, 11 grams of cocaine, 10 grams of methamphetamine, 10 grams of marijuana and nearly 7 grams of MDMA. Although the shooting was deemed justified, detectives charged Setti and his two roommates, for possession of the drugs.

Setti, DOB 03/01/87, and Monica Esparza, DOB 09/01/97, are charged with six counts each of Possession of Cocaine, Meth, MDMA, Ketamine, Marijuana and Paraphernalia. Kathryn Vesh, DOB 01/11/85, is charged with Possession of Meth and Possession of Paraphernalia. All three turned themselves in Monday morning. Vesh remains in custody on $2,000 bond while Esparza also remains in custody on outstanding charges from Charlotte County. Setti was released late Monday evening on $5,500 bond.